The group says it has been contacted by numerous community organisations voicing their support for the project.

Spokesperson Greg Freeman said older people requiring access for recovery from surgery, a disabled person wanting better quality facilities and a specialist doctor who realises the health benefits are among those who are supporting the community campaign.

“The response doesn’t surprise me. The regular users of the current pool all know the pool is well passed its use by date,” he said.

Mr Freeman said the push for a multi-use facility was more than ‘just about lap swimming’.

“A specialist doctor told me that, from a health point of view, an upgraded facility would be particularly beneficial for a range of health issues.

“We know we can fill a void in many areas.”

The push for an upgraded aquatic centre has been acknowledged by council and is an early submission in the 2017/18 operational plan, Mr Freeman said.

“The initial response, certainly from council, has been good and we hope to continue engaging with council,” he added.

The committee will undertake a survey of stakeholders to determine key elements of an aquatic centre, consider engagement with all levels of government and work through funding options including a private/public mix.

“We will also look at similarly sized aquatic centres currently operating to gauge their working models,” he said.

“Our group understands the need for this to be a stakeholder and community-driven process.

“We think this is the best way forward at all levels.”

To join the discussion and to offer your thoughts and ideas, go to the group’s Facebook page by searching New Pool For Port.